I'm looking at buying a used Sako Finnlight 75 and was wondering what the differences in the two models are. I was also wondering how the recoil in a 300 WSM would be in a light rifle like this. Thanks.

This is a timely thread. I have an 'itch' for a Sako and have been asking some questions/gathering info. From what I have gathered, the 75's are heavier than the 85's. The 85's have an 'enhanced' magazine release which prevents accidental removal, whereas the 75's do not. There may be other differences that i overlooked or am not aware of.

I have a M85 Finnlite and before that a M75 standard weight.

The M75 is gone. I love the M85. Well balanced and accurate. I've not handled a M75 lightweight so am unable to properly compare the two. I don't remember for sure but do not think I even adjusted the trigger in the M85, just went shooting with it.

Just the same, not everyone has my tastes.

Jim

OJ--what caliber were both rifles? How's the recoil? Thanks.

Bob

I liked the 75's stock better.. and I never had a problem with the magazine in my 75.

One on GB:

http://www.gunbroker.com/Auction/ViewItem.aspx?Item=327055126

More of the 75's had the sawed off(20") barrels if you're into that sort of thing. I own several of both 75's and 85's. I prefer the 85's for a variety of reasons. More open grip, claw controlled feed which reduced the feed angle for smoother operation, shorter bolt handle and on wood stocked models about 1/2 pound less weight. The new soft touch stock of the 85 finnlight is very well made and I prefer it over the 75 stock.

I dont have a Finnlight but I have several m75 SS and Greywolf rifles. IMO, the accidental release has never happened for me. My first Sako m75ss rifle was new back in 1997. I know it has happened but IMO,its more of a gimmick upgrade.

I personally prefer the m75 stock design over the m85. I guess you can always get a MacMillan stock in the m75 design for a m85 rifle. That might be something to consider, getting a used m75ss or Finnlight and ordering a MacMillan Edge or standard stock.

I also do not care for the factory fluting on the barrel compared to the custom fluting by a gunsmith. I have had 2 factory barrels fluted on my Sako m75 rifles.

GSP814,

Sorry to be slow in getting back.

The M75 was 25-06 and the M85 is a 30-06.

Recoil in the M85 is not bothersome at all (and I'm in my late 70's). My only problem is, 30-06 seems to be an unlucky caliber for me. I have only once gotten shooting when carrying this caliber and was unsuccessful that time due to heavy brush. For many years my main rifle was a .270 and I had great success with it!

Jim

Sound like a good reason to sell it to ME

+1. The 85 is light enough and the 75 is too heavy.

I've got more than one 85 - all good.

WiFowler,

I like the M85 so well I am unlikely to let it go. It is reliably accurate when I take it to the range and it is a joy to carry when I'm deer hunting. I didn't take it moose hunting with me last Fall because I had a new .300 WSM to play with. The moose we got was at about 300 yards. The 06 would have done as well but it wasn't with me!

Jim

The 85 has more metal in the barrel, but 1/2lb less weight in the stock.

Only problem with them any more is the price, they jumped up about three years ago, and they weren't cheap then.